W&M Residence Life Resource Guide
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W&M Residence Life Resource Guide
2021-2022
The University reserves the right to make modifications to this Resource Guide. Residence Life has overall
responsibility for the management of the University’s student residences.
Policies
The Associate Vice President, Director of Business Operations, Associate Directors, Assistant Directors, Area
Directors and the staff of residences (Community Directors, Head Residents, Resident Assistants, and Housing
Assistants) are responsible for enforcing regulations as outlined in the currentedition of the Student Handbook and
Use of Campus Facilities Policy.
It is expressly understood that violation of policies in the Student Handbook and Use of Campus Facilities Policy,
Residence Life Resource Guide or of the terms of the Housing Contract by the resident may result in penalties
ranging from a warning to the resident being discharged from the University’s residence halls to permanent dismissal
from the University. The University is under no obligation to house a resident whose Contract has been previously
terminated due to a failure to abide by the conditions of the Contract and Residence Life Resource Guide.
COVID-19 Health and Well-Being Policies
As we return to campus and manage the impact of COVID-19 in our community, a mutual commitment to the health
and well-being of one another has never been more critical. In a campus residential setting, this is even more
essential. Residence Life at William & Mary has a long history of providing a community experience based upon
connection, interaction, and care for one another. We must remain together in our commitment to protect one
another. This will require the full dedication of every single resident.
1. To the best of my ability I will follow CDC guidelines and Iwill not arrive on campus if experiencing any
COVID-19 symptoms.
2. If mandated during the year, and in compliance with possible directives of the Governor of Virginia and/or
CDC guidelines, I will wear a face covering as required (except in my own room, the bathroom, or while
eating).
3. I will participate in personal hygiene such as frequent hand-washing, not touching my face, etc.)
4. I will abide by all guest and visitation policies.
5. I will abide by all stated and posted expectations for use of shared residential spaces such as study lounges,
kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms.
6. If I have symptoms of COVID-19 I will avoid public spaces and visit the Student Health Center, my local
health care provider, or an urgent care facility.
7. If directed by a health care professional, I will self-isolate or quarantine for as long as deemed necessary
and notify University officials that I have may have come into contact with someone with COVID-19 or
tested positive for COVID-19 and I will implement my Personal Evacuation Plan.
Check In and Check Out Procedures
Checking into a Room Students are required to officially check-in with staff and have present their QR code to
confirm they receive their room key(s) upon their arrival to campus. Failure of a student to officially check-in and
retrieve their key(s) by the first day of classes may result in a referral to their Area Director.
Room Key Each resident will receive a room key and, where applicable, a front door key. ID card readers are available
on most residence hall exterior entrances. Residents officially check-in with staff and have their ID card swiped
indicated that they have obtained their key(s). Residents may not change or add locks (including chain locks,
deadbolts, etc.). Duplication of room keys is prohibited.Room Condition Residence Life staff members conduct pre-occupancy readiness inspections of all resident rooms
prior to check-in. In addition, residents will be provided an opportunity to submit information about the condition of
their room via the Housing Portal on-line once they have checked in. This form must be completed within two
weeks of check-in. After two weeks the resident may be held financially responsible for damages or loss to the
assigned space.
Early Check-In Residents must abide by the appointed schedule for arrival. Early arrivals will be very limited.
Only those student leaders and groups designated as critical to University activities in advance of the official
opening.The few individual residents who are approved by Residence Life to arrive early will be assessed an
additional charge that will be charged to their student account. All early arrivals must abide by all University rules,
regulations and policies. Early arrival approvals apply only to the individual being approved by Residence Life and
does not extend to friends, roommates or apartment-mates and includes not storing belongings for another student.
Checking out of a Room
Keys Residents who change rooms, withdraw or otherwise leave University housing must return their keys to a
Residence Life staff member or the Residence Life Office within 48 hours. If a key is lost or not returned by the stated
deadline, a $55 per key and $75 per apartment change will be assessed. Unauthorized copies of keys will not be
accepted. At final checkout in the spring semester, keys must be received by the Area Director by 10AM on the
Mondayfollowing Commencement. Once a student has returned their key they must also check-out via the Housing
Portal.
Late Check-Out At the end of the fall semester residents should plan to leave campus housing by 10AM on the day
the residence halls close. This does not apply to residents of the Graduate Complex and Tribe Square. Late check-
outs in the fall will not be approved. For the spring, non-graduating residents who are approved by Residence Life to
remain beyond the stated deadline may be billed an additional charge if the stay is beyond the contract dates.
Withdrawals/Room changes during the semester When a resident changes rooms, withdraws or is separated from
the University or its residences for any reason, the resident will remove all personal belongings from the University
premises, vacate the residence and return key(s) within 48 hours. Residents may choose an Express check out option,
or may check out with a residence life staff member. Upon request, residents are provided an opportunity to meet with
a Residence Life staff member after they have moved all of their belongings from their room and have the room
inspected. The staff member will collect the room key(s) and evaluate the condition of the room, noting any damages,
missing items or cleaning concerns. Residents who choose Express check out are subject to charges for any or all
damages/loss or cleaning of the room. Exceptions to the 48-hour provision may be authorized for good cause by
Residence Life. Contact a staff member in your building or living@wm.edu for assistance with check out procedures.
Once a student has returned their key they must also check-out via the Housing Portal regardless of how they check-
out.
Withdrawals at the end of the Fall semester Students who will not continue to live in the same room during the
spring semester are required to remove all their belongings from their room at the end of the fall semester. Residents
will remove all personal items from their assigned room and return their room key(s) to the duty office drop box and
then self-checkout on the Housing Portal.
Abandoned Property The University will retain abandoned property in accordance with state laws. Should items
remain unclaimed they will be stored at the departing resident’s expense. A room-cleaning charge will also be assessed
to any student who fails to remove his/her items or personal property within 48 hours of withdrawal or separation.
Damages
Room Damage/Loss The resident (and roommate(s) where assigned) is responsible for damages to the assigned room,
as well as damage and/or loss to the furnishings and fixtures the University has provided. The resident agrees topay for
the restoration of the property to its condition at the time of occupancy or for repairs or replacement (except normal
wear and tear), unless the identity of others responsible for the damage or loss is established and proven by theresident(s). Resident(s) are responsible for any damage or loss to the premises caused by their guests (if permitted).This
responsibility extends until the resident is officially checked out of the assigned space by a Residence Life staff
member. Charges for damages, cleaning, replacement of furniture, etc. shall be divided by the number of students
assigned to the room. If one or more roommates assume responsibility for damages, cleaning, replacement of furniture,
etc., a written statement signed by the responsible party must be noted on the Closing Agreement, which must be
signed by all of the room/apartment residents and submitted to the Area Director indicating who specifically should
be charged. Charges will not be assessed to one roommate based solely on another roommate’s claim. Students should
ensure all windows and doors to the room are locked and secured before their final departure at check-out.
Common Area Damage/Loss Residents are responsible for any damage or loss caused or non-routine cleaning or
trash removal required to the common areas of the residence halls and their furnishings, including vending machines
and other equipment placed in the residence halls as a convenience to the residents. Common areas include hallways,
stairwells, recreation rooms, kitchens, study rooms, living rooms, laundry rooms, common bathrooms and lounges.
When damage occurs, the responsible student(s) will be billed directly for the repairs. If no individuals are identified
as the responsible parties, individual Community Councils and Residence Life staff have the authority to assess and
assign charges to students for these damages. Common Area charges that are assigned by the Community Councils or
Area Director will be collected directly by Community Council representatives prior to the end of the semester.
Residents are expected to provide payment to the Community Council representative, in absence of a Community
Council the Area Director will receive the payment. If at the end of the year charges assigned by the Community
Council have not been paid, Residence Life will bill the student directly for Community Council charges plus an
additional $15 administrative charge. Damages may also result in action through the Code of Conduct. Those students
who are responsible for vandalism or theft may be removed from and/or denied future housing in University residence
halls.
Procedures for appealing damage charges In the event the resident wishes to contest charges for damages or loss,
the following procedure is prescribed:
1. Contact the Area Director via email for the building in which the alleged damage occurred. For Community
Council levied damage billing, appeals may be heard by the Community Council or the Community Council’s
designees prior to the last day of classes in the spring semester. After the last day of classes in the spring
semester the Area Director will hear all appeals.
2. Residents may appeal the decision of the Area Director by contacting the Director of Business Operationsin
via email. The decision of the Director of Business Operations is final. Appeals of Community Council levied
damages will be forwarded automatically to the Appeals Board.
3. Community Council damage appeals will be heard by the Appeals Board consisting of three representatives
from the Residence Hall Association (RHA). The decision of the Appeals Board is final.
4. Charges must be appealed in writing within 30 days of the date of the bill. Bills received during the summer
must be appealed in writing before the end of the first full week of classes in the fall semester.
Insurance/Damage to Personal Property The University is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage to
personal property resulting from fire, theft, flood,casualty or any cause, or for personal injury occurring within the
leased premises, except as may be required by Virginia law. Residence Life and the University are not permitted to
directly reimburse residents for any damages orclaims per Virginia law. It is strongly recommended that personal
property insurance be carried by each student.
Emergency Readiness
Personal Evacuation Plans All students in campus housing are required to have two valid and realistic personal
evacuation plans on file with the University prior to the first day of undergraduate classes. Failure to submit valid
and realistic plans is a violation of the Code of Conduct and will result in a referral to Student Conduct or potential
holds on the students account.
In the event the University determines evacuation of the residence halls is necessary, all students in housing will
be required to vacate their rooms and will not be allowed to return until the University officially reopens. This also
includesresidents of CW House, Tribe Square, and the Graduate Complex. Students who test positive for Covid-19
or come into close contact with someone who tests positive may be directed by University officials to quarantine orisolate. This would require implementation of the Personal Evacuation Plan. Residents may not quarantine or isolate
in W&M Residence Halls.
Winter Break Preparedness Students should pack carefully when leaving for winter break, taking care to bring all
essential and important items such as passports, ID, laptops, medications, clothing, instruments andcritical academic
items (notes, textbooks, etc.). Refrigerators should be emptied, cleaned, and unplugged. Do not leave fish or plants
in rooms over winterbreak.
Shelter-In-Place Policy When emergency conditions do not warrant or allow time to evacuate campus, students
may be asked to take shelter inside their residence hall. A shelter-in-place alert will be given by William & Mary’s
Emergency Management Team (EMT) to limit student and employee exposure to apparent life-threatening, hostile
or hazardous situations. To prepare for an emergency, residents are encouraged to keep a supply of required
medications along with snacks and bottled water in their rooms.
If a shelter-in-place alert is communicated:
• Follow the instructions provided by the EMT to either remain where you are or to go immediately to your
residence hall.
• Stay where you are until an ‘all clear’ notice is given. Do not go outside for any reason.
• Close and lock all windows and close your window blinds/shades.
• If instructed, turn off all air conditioners, heaters and fans. Close all vents.
• Stay inside. If instructed, stay out of lounges and hallways as much as possible.
• Gather essential supplies like your mobile phone, ID, medications, bottled water and snacks.
• Wait for further instructions.
Facilities Management and Maintenance
Maintenance, repair and housekeeping services are provided by Facilities Management and can be accessed by calling
757-221-2270 or through the on-line service request system. Students who need assistance should submit online
service requests or contact a member of the Residence Life staff.
Building Services/Trash Removal Building Services staff is responsible for routine cleaning of common areas, such
as hallways, stairwells, common area bathrooms and lounges. Hallways, stairwells, bathrooms, kitchens and lounges
must be kept free of personal belongings that could impede the ability of Building Services staff to maintain these
areas. No cleaning services are provided for apartments or suite/private bathrooms. Students are expected to maintain
their rooms in an orderly and sanitary condition. This includes removal of personal trash (ex: trash bags, pizza boxes,
etc.) to a University dumpster and recycling to University approved recycling areas. Residents may be charged a fee
for the removal of personal trash from common areas.
Extermination Residents must take care in keeping their rooms and common areas clean to prevent insect infestation.
The University is under contract with an extermination service to respond to specific insect and pest problems. This
service must be requested through Facilities Management by calling directly to 757-221-2270 to make an appointment.
Maintenance While the University is responsible for the routine maintenance, the resident is responsible for reporting
maintenance concerns in their assigned spaces (room, apartment, suite/private bathroom, etc.). The University will
provide electrical power, heat and water and maintain these utilities under controllable conditions. As a condition of
the housing contract, the University shall not be responsible or liable for any damage or loss to personal property
caused by the cessation or failure of such utilities, no matter the reason. Moreover, the University will not be in breach
of this Contract if such utility service is suspended for any reason. If the premises are rendered unsafe or unfit for
occupancy the University will offer alternate campus housing if it is available or provide a prorated refund of the
unused portion of the rent according to the schedule printed in the most recent edition of the William & Mary Catalog.
Repairs Requests for repairs should be filed by the resident on the Facilities Management web site. Submitting this
online request provides official authorization for University staff to enter the student room/apartment. If the repair is
not made within a reasonable amount of time the resident should contact Facilities Management to determine the
status of the service request using the service request number provided. If the repair is still not made, the Area Director
should be notified of the situation and given the opportunity to resolve the problem.Emergency Repairs The Emergency Call Center 757-221-2270, operates Monday through Friday, 4:30 p.m. to
7:30a.m. and 24 hours a day on weekends and holidays. Routine facilities issues should be reported through the on-
lineservice request form.
Rent Rebates If after a reasonable amount of time repairs are not made or sufficient reason for the delay provided,
the resident may appeal via email to the Director of Business Operations for a rent rebate or other solution. Rebates
are granted only in cases where the University has remained unresponsive and the condition of the premises is such
that reasonable occupancy and use thereof is precluded. The decision of the Director of Business Operations
concerning whether a rebate is final and may not be appealed. Once a rebate has been granted, the amount of the rebate
may not be appealed. Rebate requests must be made prior to June 30 of the current contract year.
Furnishings/Fixtures The following is provided in each room: one bed, mattress (typically 36"x 81"), chest of
drawers, closet/wardrobe, desk, and desk chair per student and one recycling container per room. Other furnishings
will vary according to the individual residence hall. Residents in One Tribe Place, Richmond Hall and Tribe Square
have full size mattresses. Furniture provided by the University will not be removed or stored by the University.
• Room and apartment furniture may not be switched between rooms or with lounge furniture. Room furniture
may not be placed in common areas. University provided furniture may not be taken outside.
• Window screens may not be removed. Students who have a window air conditioner will have their screen
removed and stored by Facilities Management.
• To maintain positive air pressure in the buildings, the windows in One Tribe Place and Richmond Hall are
inoperable.
Guests/Visitation
Guests in the Hall In order to meet safety best practices, beginning Fall 2021 the following residence hall visitation
policies will be in effect:
• Residents will have ID access to their assigned residence hall only.
• Off campus students will not have ID access to residence halls.
• Residents will have access to the building housing their area Duty Office during normal duty office hours
of operations – 6pm to 10pm.
• Fraternity and Sorority members will have ID access to their chapter houses during the hours defined by
each chapter.
• Students may visit each other in residence halls.
• Non-resident visitors and guests must be met at the building entrance for access, escorted by resident host
throughout the visit, and are expected to abide by all rules and regulations of William & Mary, Residence
Life as well as individual building Community Agreements. The resident is responsible for the behavior of
all guests, including restitution for damage to University facilities.
Inspections/Room Entry/Searches Authorized personnel may enter a student room:
1. For the purpose of assuring fire protection, life safety, sanitation or scheduled maintenance and use of the
University’s furnishings, fixtures and facilities. Any such inspections or entry, except in the case of
emergencies, shallbe announced in advance by the posting of a notice in the residence hall or via e-mail
notification unless there is an emergency need to access the room. The resident’s absence will not prevent
the carrying out of such maintenance or safety inspections.
2. When an occupant has requested repairs or extermination by completing an on-line service request form,
authorized maintenance personnel may enter in the resident’s absence for the sole purpose of making the
repairs or exterminatingas requested.
3. To ensure the buildings are secured Residence Life staff may enter and check resident rooms during closing
for the semester break or during an evacuation event. Visible violations of University policy may result in a
referral to Community Values & Restorative Practices.
4. If a roommate moves out of a room, Residence Life staff may enter the room following the completion of the
moveto inspect for damages/loss and ensure space is available for a new occupant.
5. To verify that all vacancies are prepared for new occupants for the spring semester. A referral to CommunityValues & Restorative Practices and/or cleaning charges may be imposed on a resident if his/her room is not
ready fora new occupant.
6. If noise (unattended loud music, alarms, etc.) coming from a room where the occupants are not present is
causinga disruption to the community.
7. To unlock a suite bathroom door if it is reasonable to assume that suitemates will be gone overnight and/or
being locked out of the bathroom creates a major inconvenience or safety hazard to locked-out residents.
8. To retrieve necessary items for residents who may be hospitalized or out of town.
Residence Life policy prohibits staff members from unlocking room doors for anyone other than the assigned
occupant(s) (except in those cases outlined in the Statement of Rights and Responsibilities found in the Student
Handbook and Use of Campus Facilities Policy).
It is understood and agreed that a resident’s room or possessions on campus will not be searched by University
authorities for violation of University rules and regulations or applicable law unless there is reasonable
administrative cause to believe that a resident is using his/her room for purposes in violation of University rules or
regulations, or in violation of the Housing Contract and unless a certificate authorizing the search has been issued
and signedby the Vice President of Student Affairs or their designee. The certificate shall state the source of
information, the violation, the location of the search, the materials to be seized or information sought and the
name(s) of the person(s) authorized to conduct the search. The foregoing does not apply to searches conducted by
local or William & Mary Police. Such searches are governed by the Code of Virginia.
Room Changes and Room Selection
Residents may not move from one room to another without prior written approval from Residence Life. Violation of
this requirement will result in a $50 charge (the resident will be required to move back into the original assignment)
and is a violation of this Contract which may result in a referral to Community Values & Restorative Practices.
Room Change Dates The room change process begins one week after the first day of classes in the fall and spring
semesters until the last day of classes. No room changes will be processed after the last day of classes. All room change
requests will be processed via the Housing Portal Room Change form.
General Room Changes Students interested in changing rooms should submit a request via the Housing Portal and
submit a Room Change form. Changes are typically approved as available on a first-come, first-served basis, but may
be made based on the individual circumstances involved. Once a change has been granted students should complete
their move within 48 hours. Exceptions to the 48-hour provision may be authorized for good cause by the Associate
Director for Administration.
Direct Room Switches A direct switch is when two residents of the same residence hall area exchange room
assignments. Room changes into vacant spaces or into another residence hall area must follow the general room change
guidelines. Direct room changes (person for person) prior to move in are accepted throughout the summer and prior
to move in. All students involved must submit a request via the Housing Portal and submit a Room Change application
between May 1 and August 3. As long as the rooms are not in Special Interest Housing (other than Fraternity/Sorority
Housing) and there are no vacancies involved in the switch, the request is usually approved. Direct room changes
involving special interest housing will require approval from the academic department that administers the house.
Otherwise, requests for room changes will not be accepted until one week after the first day of classes at the beginning
of the fall semester.
End of Fall Semester Room Changes At the end of the fall semester, there are a substantial number of room changes.
Individuals who change rooms must officially vacate and check-out of their former assignment before the halls close
for the winter break. Residents will be provided with instructions at the time they submit the room changerequest.
Residents may not pass keys on to other residents and must individually complete the room change process as outlined.
Items may not be moved to the new location until the room change has been authorized and a move-in date provided.
Currently Enrolled Students To request a room in a University residence for the following academic year, a currently
enrolled student or a student readmitted by the Dean of Students must sign and electronically accept the HousingContract with the University prior to the annual room selection process prior to selecting or being offered a space in
housing. This Housing Contract serves as the student’s indication that they wish to reside in University housing. It is
non-refundable except in the event the resident officially withdraws from the University, is academically dropped, is
selected to participate in an approved Semester Study Away program, is unable to enroll due to illness, or is
temporarily wait-listed from the Room Selection Process. A person who is wait-listed from the Room Selection
Process can take one prospective roommate with him/her to move off campus as long as they request a refund together
and apply by the stated deadline. The student has 24 hours to cancel from initially signing the housing contract, after
this time the scheduled cancelation fees outlined in the Housing Contract go into effect.
Transfer/Returning/New Students Prior to receiving an on-campus housing assignment students must
electronically accept the Housing Contract indicating they have read and agree to the terms and conditions of
housing. Students who are required to live on campus as part of the 2 Year Live On Requirement will be assigned
and billed for a space even if they do not complete the Housing Contract.
Room Safety and Security Residents are responsible for the security of their assigned space. Residents should
keep their room doors locked when they are away from the room.
Subletting
Students may not transfer this Contract or sublet the assigned room to another party.
Vacancies/ Space Consolidation
Residence Life reserves the right to fill all vacancies and consolidate space. If a space becomes available in a room
because a roommate has not been assigned or a roommate moves out, Residence Life reserves the right to fill the
vacancy. If Residence Life determines space is available, residents will be notified and offered the opportunity to
continue to live in the room at an increased rate for the balance of the semester and be assured the University will not
assign someone to that space.
Unwelcoming to Potential Roommates
Residents who engage in conduct to discourage or intimidate other students from moving into a room or who otherwise
attempt to manipulate the housing assignment process may be subject to referral to Community Values & Restorative
Practices. This includes not responding to phone calls, e-mail or other attempts to make contact.
As space is available students may be offered the opportunity to buy out a double room as a single. A rate not to
exceed $1900 will be charged per semester to retain the room as a guaranteed single. Students who choose to keep the
room as a double must willingly and graciously accept any assigned roommate over the course of the year or may be
back charged when not accepting a roommate.
Safety and Security
General Safety
1. The University cannot guarantee the safety and security of the premises. Residents are responsible for their
personalsecurity and that of their belongings within University facilities.
2. Because of the risk of injury and property damage, residents are prohibited from planning and/or participating
in events and activities that involve the use of water and water devices within or adjacent to campus
residences, i.e. swimming pools, water balloons, water guns, or slip-n-slides. Residents are also prohibited
from engaging in sports indoors within campus residences; this includes but is not limited to football, soccer,
bikes, skateboards or hover boards.
3. Residents should lock their bedroom doors every time they leave the room, and while sleeping. Safety is a
mutual responsibility and residents are expected to follow safety protocols to protect themselves and their
belongings.
4. A valid William & Mary ID is required to access the residence halls. While the University is in session the exterior doors
to the residence halls will be controlled to restrict access to residents of assigned halls only. Residents should not allow
others to follow them into their building unless they are their personal guest.
5. Residents may not engage in any activity that creates a safety risk or that jeopardizes the security of the
premises, including but not limited to, the propping of exterior doors and the removal of window screens.6. For safety reasons, the roofs, porches, window ledges, unfinished attics and mechanical equipment rooms of
all residential facilities are restricted areas and may not be accessed.
7. Individuals observed in the residential facilities who are not residents should be reported immediately to a
Residence Life staff member or William & Mary Police.
Electrical and Fire Safety
1. Permanent electrical circuits cannot be altered by occupants or anyone not authorized by the University.
2. Appliances and any other electrical equipment with damaged, worn, spliced, cracked or frayed cords and
plugs must be replaced and may not be used in the residence halls.
3. All lighting fixtures must use only light bulbs of type and wattage as recommended by the manufacturer.
Lamp shades must also meet manufacturer specifications for the specific fixture.
4. Please refer to the list of prohibited items below.
5. Grounded re-locatable power taps or surge protectors with a “reset” switch are the only allowable receptacle
extensions from wall outlets. Each power tap must be plugged directly into a wall receptacle and they must
not be plugged into one another. Non-fused extension cords and flexible cords are prohibited in residence
hall rooms.
6. No power cord, of any type, shall be extended through walls, ceilings or floors, or under doors or floor
coverings,nor shall any cord be subject to environmental damage or physical impact.
7. Combustible items may not be stored within 24” of the ceiling (18” for buildings with sprinkler systems).
Fire Safety
1. Open flames (from any source) and burning materials of any kind are absolutely prohibited in the residence
halls.
2. The integrity of all ceilings, floors and walls must remain intact and not be disturbed. Ceiling tiles are not to
be removed, disturbed or broken, nor should items be stored above a drop ceiling. Light fixtures must have a
proper globeor deflector in place. Any open bulb fixture is a fire hazard and should be reported.
3. Additional permanent wall coverings (e.g. paneling, wallpaper, etc.) may not be installed by occupants.
4. According to Virginia State Fire Code, candles and incense are prohibited in residence halls, even if such
items are unlit or being used for decorative purpose only. Decorative candles that do not have a wick are
permissible.
5. According to Virginia State Fire Code, no more than 10% of a residence hall room’s wall surface area may
be covered by potentially flammable objects. This includes but is not limited to posters, framed pictures,
photos, flags, tapestries or any other decorative objects that are mounted on the wall. Residents in residence
hall rooms that approachor surpass this 10% level may be required to remove items as necessary to comply
with state fire safety requirements.In addition, wall hangings cannot contact electrical outlets or come closer
than 12 inches to the heating unit. Some ceiling decorations are prohibited if they interfere with mounted
ceiling lights, fire alarm and detection equipment orsprinkler systems.
6. Window decorations other than University furnished shades, drapes or blinds may be used but must carry a
recognized fire rating and be constructed of fire-retardant material. Documentation may be required.
7. Living areas must be kept uncluttered and access to the doors clear. Hallways and stairways must remain clear
andunobstructed. No student belongings may be left in these areas.
8. At no time may the maximum capacity restrictions of a room or apartment, be exceeded. (See Capacity
Numbers in the Policies section)
9. Fireplaces: working fireplaces in the following locations may be used under conditions as noted: DuPont,
GraduateComplex lounge, Willis, and Tazewell.
a. Residents must be trained in proper fireplace safety procedures by a Campus Fire Safety Officer.
Once trained,residents may be issued fireplace equipment.
b. There should always be a fire extinguisher present in the vicinity when there is an attended fire in the
fireplace.
c. The use of chemical fire starters is prohibited.
d. Residents wishing to use a fire pit (commercially designed or ground installed) must obtain a “Burn
Permit”from a Campus Fire Safety Officer prior to each activity using a fire pit.
10. When cooking, residents must remain physically present in the kitchen at all times to monitor the cooking
process and ensure that nothing is burning or that excessive smoke does not set off the fire alarm.Prohibited Items in the Residence Halls
Listed below are examples of items not permitted in the residence halls. This list is not all-inclusive.
• air fryers
• animals (excluding fish and pre-approved assistance animals)
• bicycles
• candles
• resident installed ceiling fans
• chain locks
• curtains that are not fire rated – all curtains must be fire-retardant and must have the tag intact to confirm the
fire rating or the curtains have been treated with a fire-retardant spray. It is the responsibility of the resident
to keep documentation regarding either the curtains or the spray to present to the State Fire Marshal if
requested.
• Resident installed dead-bolt locks
• explosives
• firearms
• fireworks
• fog or smoke machines of any kind
• gasoline and combustible liquids
• gasoline-powered or motorized vehicles (motorcycles, scooters, etc.)
• hover boards
• incense
• live-cut Christmas trees
• non-fused extension cords and multi-plug adapters – all extension cords and multi-plug adapters must be
surge protected with a resettable internal circuit breaker. This includes plug-in air fresheners, desk lamps and
bed risers that have built-in adapters.
• oil lamps including ‘tiki’ torches
• outside antennas
• open flames
• scented plug-in devices of any kind
• space heaters – if one is required then Facilities Management will supply a space heater
• rollerblades
• halogen lamps
• waterbeds
• weapons (see College Code of Conduct for definitions of weapons)
• The following kitchen appliances are prohibited in student rooms, but may be stored and used in residence hall
kitchens if the kitchens are in use: air fryers, bread machines, crock pots, immersion coils, hotpots that are
not thermostatically controlled, rice cookers, hot plates, toaster ovens, broilers, George Foreman Grills,
electric skillets/woks andother portable electric cooking devices.
Prohibited Activity in Student Rooms Assigned residence halls are to be used strictly as the student’s residence
and for no other purpose. Residents are prohibited from using the residence hall, assigned room, or any equipment or
facilities found in the hall or the room(i.e. Ethernet or wireless connection) for purposes of conducting a personal
business or engaging in illegal activity of any kind. Exemptions for limited-term class projects for academic credit
that involve conducting a personal business may be requested from the Associate Vice President for Campus Living.
Smoke-Free Community Complying with the requirements of the Commonwealth of Virginia and according to
William & Mary's smoking policy, all residence halls, apartments, and houses are smoke-free. Residents, guests (if
permitted), and employees must refrain from smoking at any time they are physically present in the building,
including private residence roomsand within a 25-foot radius surrounding all University owned and operated
facilities. This includes the use of e- cigarettes, vaping, and medically prescribed cannabis.
Storage Residence Life will not store University furnishings outside the resident’s room. A student’s personal
property may not be stored in any area outside the resident’s room including common areas such as lounges andcorridors. W&M does not provide storage of personal items over the summer or after students have checked out
their room.
Additional Policies and Procedure
Air Conditioning Room rates are not based on the presence of air-conditioning.
Our buildings are cooled and heated much differently than a typical residential household. Most homes use a system
of ducts to move air throughout the house after it is cooled or heated in a central location. Our buildings use a
complicated system of chilled or heated water that is piped throughout the building to individual fan coil units in
student rooms.
Some of our buildings have older cooling systems with fewer features, while some of our more recently updated
buildings have systems that allow residents limited control over their climate year-round.
Some systems operate seasonally, and are either in cooling or heating mode. They are cooling from April through
October, and heating November through March. They cannot operate in both modes simultaneously, and the mode is
controlled from a central location.
Recently constructed and/or renovated buildings have systems that allow each student room to choose either heating
or cooling year-round. There is a thermostat in each room allowing residents to control the climate (within a set
temperature range) as their preference dictates.
Within both systems there are separate fresh air intakes that work in the hallways to bring fresh air into the building
– often that air is tempered to remove moisture from the air that is coming into the building; but there is no filtration
of the outside air. We recommend that students who desire filtered air bring an air purifier for their personal in-room
use.
Students assigned to rooms equipped with window-unit air-conditioners can control their room temperature at will
year-round, and window units do provide an added level of air filtration.
Cooling cycle: Air conditioning will be turned on in the spring on or about April 15. The following guidelines will
be used to determine the exact date of start-up: three consecutive days of daily high temperatures higher than 70
degrees and/or night-time temperatures no lower than 60 degrees. All air conditioning will be turned on no later than
April 20 regardless of weather.
Heating cycle: All air-conditioning in the residences will be turned off on or about October 15 of each year, The
following guidelines will be used to determine the exact date of shutdown: three consecutive days of daily
temperatures no higher than 68 degrees and/or nighttime temperatures no higher than 50 degrees and a downward or
stable trend forecast for seven days. All air conditioning will be turned off by November 1st regardless of weather.The following chart identifies our buildings AC systems:
AC in AC in
Building Lounges Rooms Type of Air Conditioning
Barrett Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Brown Yes no air conditioning
Dinwiddie Yes 1st floor rooms only - chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no
on-demand settings
Fauquier Yes 1st floor rooms only - chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no
on-demand settings
Gooch Yes 1st floor rooms only - chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no
on-demand settings
Nicholson Yes 1st floor rooms only - chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no
on-demand settings
Spotswood Yes 1st floor rooms only - chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no
on-demand settings
Bryan Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Camm Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Dawson Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Madison Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Stith Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Chandler Yes Yes chilled water system - on demand heating and cooling
DuPont Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Fraternity Houses Yes Yes chilled water system - on demand heating and cooling
Grad Complex Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Griffin Yes no air conditioning
A,B,C,D&E
Eagle F,G,H&J Yes no air conditioning
Lion K,L&M Yes no air conditioning
Hunt Yes Yes each room has a window air conditioner, heating is via heated water
Hardy Yes Yes chilled water system - on demand heating and cooling
Jefferson Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Lemon Yes Yes chilled water system - on demand heating and cooling
Landrum Yes Yes chilled water system - on demand heating and cooling
Ludwell Yes Yes external heat pumps with ducted air - each apartment has full control over
Apartments heating and cooling modes
Monroe Yes no air conditioning in individual rooms
Old Dominion Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating - no on-demandsettings
One Tribe Place Yes Yes chilled water system - on demand heating and cooling
Cabell Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Giles Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Harrison Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Nicholas Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Page Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Pleasants Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Preston Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Reves Yes Yes chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand settings
Richmond Hall Yes Yes AC / heat units in each room - each room has full control over heating and
cooling modes
Sororities (all but Yes Yes each room has a window air conditioner provided
House 5)Sororities House 5 Yes Yes AC / heat units in each room - each room has full control over heating and
(PhiBeta Pi) cooling modes
Willis Yes Yes each room has a window air conditioner provided
Tribe Square Yes Yes external heat pumps with ducted air - each apartment has full control over
heating and cooling modes
Yates Yes Yes 2 pipe chilled water system - either cooling or heating, no on-demand
settings
Requesting Air Conditioning as an Accommodation
A request for air-conditioning is a request for an accommodation due to a disability that can be processed only
through Student Accessibility Services. Students who have a diagnosed disability and need air conditioning as an
accommodation must register with Student Accessibility Services. If approved, and depending on individual need,
the University will assign the student to a chilled air system residence hall or the University will provide and install a
window unit at no cost to the student.
Alcohol Students and guests (if permitted) must adhere to the University Alcohol Beverage Policies.
Animals/Pets To preserve the health and safety of the residents, only fish in bowls or aquariums (no larger than 20
gallons) and service animals/pre-approved assistance animals are permissible in student rooms or student
apartments. In addition,since William & Mary presumes that non-human life has its own intrinsic value it calls on its
students to refrain fromactivities that might prove harmful or cruel to animals. Unapproved pets are not permitted to
enter or visit the even ona temporary basis.
Appliances The University’s residence halls are of varying design and construction type. The University reserves
the right to impose reasonable requirements with respect to the type and use of appliances, equipment and other
items students bring into the residence halls. Residents are strongly urged to use appliances that are Energy Star
compliant. (Refer to the Housing Contract Terms and Conditions: Prohibited Items for specific listing of items.)
• Refrigerators - Refrigerators no larger than 4.5 cubic feet and Energy Star rated are permitted in residence
hall rooms.
• Microwave Ovens - Microwave ovens (without convection oven options) are permitted in residence hall
rooms. Only one per room will be permitted.
• Other Approved Appliances - Hot air popcorn poppers and thermostatically controlled (switches the power
off if the appliance overheats) coffee/tea makers are permitted.
• Appliances in Apartments - Apartments are furnished with refrigerators and stove/oven units. Apartment
units with kitchens may be furnished with other kitchen appliances.
Bicycles All students are required to register their bicycles with W&M Parking Services. Bicycle registration is free
and takesonly a few minutes. Visit the Parking Services website for registration information. Bicycles must be parked in
bicycle racks and should always be locked, even when left for a short period, to reduce the potential for theft.
Bicycles foundlocked to stairways, handicap ramps, in common areas or in violation of fire code are subject to being
ticketed and immediately impounded at the owner’s expense. Bicycles may not be kept in buildings when school is
in session; however, students may store their bicycles in their residence hall rooms during breaks in the school year.
Capacity Numbers for Fire Code Based on fire safety; maximum room and apartment capacities are as follows and
should never be exceeded. These capacities may be reduced as needed during pandemic or other emergent situations.
Single rooms 9
Double rooms 10
Cabell apartments 20
Grad double apartments 15
Grad triple apartments 20*
Grad quad apartments 15
Ludwell apartments 20
Nicholas apartments 30
Tribe Square 20
* Grad triple apartments have a different capacity level due to apartment square footage.Decorations Policy Residents are permitted to decorate rooms, hallways and common areas as long as they adhere to
the following policies:
1. Smoke detectors, sprinklers, fire alarms and light fixtures must remain uncovered. Residents must not drape
or attach decorations to these items.
2. Decorations must not obstruct hallways, fire exits, exit signs and access to fire safety equipment.
3. Free-standing or table top decorations are permitted. When hanging items in common areas or on the exteriors
offraternity or sorority houses, the use of tape, tacks, nails or staples to attach decorations to walls, ceilings
and doors (including room doors) is not permitted. Decorations may be applied to bulletin boards as long as
they comply with the other policies listed here.
4. All light bulbs and light strings generate enough heat to ignite paper and cloth. Residents must ensure that
light bulbs and light strings do not come into contact with anything flammable.
5. All lighting to decorate trees or rooms must be UL approved. String lights or light ropes can be used to
decorate student rooms. Decorative lights must either be plugged directly into an outlet or into a surge
protector. Residents mayrun decorative light strings in series up to three strings per outlet. The use of string
lights in common areas is prohibitedunless they are being used on a tree or they are battery powered. No
crimping of cords may occur, so don’t run cordsunder doorways or windows.
6. For everyone’s safety, lights must be turned off when the area is unattended.
7. Use of live garland, greenery, wreaths, leaves, twigs, bamboo, branches, hay or sand as decoration is
prohibited. Floors must not be covered with any material other than carpet or rugs.
8. Artificial trees may be used in residence hall rooms, lounges, lobbies or living room areas; however, live, cut
treesare prohibited by state fire code.
9. All decorations must be removed after the specific function or, in the case of holidays, prior to residence halls
closing for winter break. Decorations left during the winter break in common areas will be removed and
discarded and the hall/group responsible for the decorations may be billed.
Fundraising, Solicitation, Distribution and Sale Policies Students and guests (if permitted) must adhere to the
University policies regarding fundraising, solicitation, distribution and sale policies.
Locks and Keys
• Bathroom Locks – Based on Virginia Code 1008.1.9, except as specifically permitted by this section egress
doors shall be readily openable from the egress side without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.
Students are prohibited from installing any type of device to lock a bathroom door from the room.
• Lockouts - Students locked out of their room should contact a Residence Life staff member for admittance
to the room or follow other instructions as provided. Students must provide proof of residency (student I.D.
number). Students will only be admitted to their assigned rooms. If a student’s room or apartment key is
temporarily misplaced, a 7-day loan key is available at the Duty Office. Replacements for lost or temporarily
misplaced keys may also be obtained at Residence Life, Campus Center 212, during normal weekday working
hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or by calling 757-221-5625 on weekends.
• Core Changes - If the residents of the room are present during the core change, they may sign for their new
key(s) from the locksmith. If residents are not present, a note will be left by the locksmith indicating that the
new keys will be available in Residence Life until 5 p.m. the day of the change or after 6 p.m. the day of the
change in their area duty office.
• Non-Emergency Core Changes – Loaned keys not returned to the duty office or Residence Life office by
the end of the 7-day loan period will result in a non-emergency core change. The student account of the
resident who checked out the loaned key will be billed the $55 per core for the change, $75 for apartments
where both locks are changed. Non-emergency core changes are done on Wednesdays except during finals.
• Emergency Core Changes – An emergency core change may be requested at the Residence Life office or
in their duty office by the student if their original key is lost or stolen and changing the lock cannot wait until
the next scheduled core change day. The student account of the student requesting the emergency core change
may be billed the $55 per core for the change, $75 for apartments where both locks are changed.
Lofts Only approved rental lofts are permitted in residence halls.
Non-Discrimination Clause Residence Life adheres to William & Mary's non-discrimination clause.Painting Rooms Student rooms are painted in an off-white color on a rotating schedule. Students may not paint their
rooms in any othercolor, or add murals or border designs to their room walls or ceilings. Students who wish to touch
up their walls maypick up the approved off-white, semi-gloss latex paint from Residence Life, 212 Campus Center.
Residents must provide their own brushes, rollers, drop cloths, etc.
Posting Policy Students and guests (if permitted) must adhere to the University Posting on Campus policies.
Quiet Hours Under the policy of Self-Determination, quiet hours are determined by each community and approved
by theCommunity Council.
Registering Events in Residential Areas Students or recognized student groups who are interested in hosting large
scale non-alcoholic events in or adjacentto campus residence halls must do the following.
1. Obtain an Event Registration Form from Student Leadership Development, Campus Center 203.
2. Have the Area Director sign to approve the Event Registration Form and discuss proper procedures related
to reserving space in and around campus residence halls.
3. Return the signed Event Registration Form to Student Leadership Development at least one week prior to
the event.
4. Forms for approved events must be picked up and displayed at the event or the event is considered
“unauthorized”.
5. Refer to the campus Alcohol Policy for information on registering events with alcohol.
Shared Living Expectations: The shared living expectations document serves as the foundation for residents
beginning to develop shared expectations about their living space and negotiate areas of concern on a small scale.
Residents who engage in these conversations can mitigate difficulties by discussing potential concerns and
negotiating space expectations before they develop into conflicts. Discussing shared living expectations will prompt
roommates to think about many common issues that develop when sharing space. This document is a useful tool to
develop a clear understanding that balances each resident’s needs and wants. Once completed each roommate keeps
a copy.
Roommate Conflict/Mediation When conflicts arise, Residence Life urges roommates to try to resolve the conflict
themselves through open, respectful direct communication. In a situation where that does not work Residence Life
can help mediate conflicts.While strongly encouraged, Residence Life does not require roommates to participate in
roommate mediations.
There must be willingness from both roommates for a mediation to be successful.
If a conflict does occur between roommates, they have several options that can be explored:
1. discuss the concern directly with the roommate(s),
2. request a mediation with the RA or another member of the Residence Life staff or
3. request a room change at Residence Life, 212 Campus Center.
On extremely rare occasions when the current living situation is deemed unhealthy for the residents and the
residence hall community and mediation has not be successful or is not an option for both roommate and neither
resident is willing to consider a room change, both residents may be required to change rooms.
Self-determination The University’s dedication to liberal arts education is reflected in Residence Life’s self-
determination policy and serves as the foundation for the Residence Life program at William & Mary. It is
imperative that staff members have a solid understanding of the history and the policy, and how it is implemented on
a daily basis. Residence Life staff members are responsible for educating their residents about the principles and for
serving as role models in its implementation.
Guidelines, Principles, and Assumptions
Guidelines: Self-determination rests on two basic beliefs:
1. Within the parameters of civil, University regulations and safety/security best practices, you should have
the opportunity to cooperativelydetermine your environment, and
2. You are mature and capable of managing the responsibilities accompanying this opportunity, whichincludesconfronting someone who is violating your rights, being accountable for your behavior, and
recognizing the compromises inherent in living with other people
Principles: Each residential area is viewed as a living-learning center with the goal of enriching each resident’s
educational experience. The residents in each area, with the guidance of the Residence Life staff, develop guidelines
and procedures of governance for living that allows for both individual freedom and the privacy and personal rights
of community members.
Shared living expectations conversations, community agreements, and Community Councils are the primary
mediums through which residents exercise self-governance. Roommates develop expectations that guide the use of
their room space. Hall communities develop community agreements that establish the standards and expectations
that residents agree to abide by and enforce. Community Councils are the bodies that govern a building or area.
Assumptions: Self-determination operates optimally when these assumptions are adhered to:
• Students at William & Mary, as adult members of the community, can make decisions, individually and
collectively, that affect their daily lives.
• Residents are provided the opportunity to make decisions within a framework of general philosophy is a
validand practical educational experience permitting students to participate in the process of self-
governance.
• Residence Community Councils grow and develop into mature governing bodies capable of leading their
residences by establishing guidelines for community living that:
o Ensures the rights of privacy and freedom of movement of each resident of the hall,
o Are consistent with the established system of security for the hall,
o Ensures that each visitor to a residence hall is a welcome guest (if permitted) of a resident, and
o Develops policies and procedures that are fully compatible with the academic objectives of aresidential
educational community.
Community Agreements The community agreement is a “living” document that can and should be refined as
determined by community members. Residents in a particular community create standards and expectations through
their community agreement that identifies how respect for self and others will be established. The process of
negotiating, documenting, and renegotiating the agreement begins at the first hall meeting and continues throughout
the year. Forexample, a community may be very socially oriented during the opening weeks of the academic year,
but after the first round of exams, the community may decide to adjust the balance between studies and fun. This
ongoing process provides the community with opportunities to redefine their expectations as they evolve.
Non-Negotiables:
• All residents of a floor/living area are expected to participate in the development of the community agreement
and sign the completed agreement. The community agreement may be amended at any time. Any resident of
aliving area may call a meeting to discuss modification. Amended community agreements will be distributed
asstated below.
• A copy of each community agreement shall be posted in the living area and an electronic copy kept on file
in Residence Life. One copy will be distributed or emailed to each resident. Electronic copies are to be sent
to theArea Director and the Council advisor.
• Residents are expected to maintain the condition of the facility and safety of its occupants. Residents will
refrain from the willful destruction or damage to property in and of the residence hall. The standards
adopted bythe Hall Council and through individual community agreements must be compatible with
University and Residence Life polices, and State and Federal laws.
Negotiables: Minimally the community agreement will address:
• Issues of common area use and cleanliness (lounges, study rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, laundry
rooms, etc.)
• Expectations for reasonable quiet including appropriate hours and what are acceptable noise levels
• Acceptable and unacceptable behaviors that may infringe on the rights of other residents
• Assurance of reasonable levels of safety and security
• The process for resolution of problems associated with community agreement standardsYou can also read
